If you want to compete for large commercial buyers, it's wise to set up a pet trade show exhibit at every event possible. At these events, folks in the pet industry gather to check out the latest products and offerings from vendors like you. Since your competition may very well be set up right next to you, make sure that your pet trade show design is the best it can be.

To attract customers to your exhibit, you have to catch their eye; your pet trade show setup is key here. If your exhibit is jumbled and unorganized, with merchandise haphazardly strewn about, that will catch the attendees' attention, but not in the way you want. To get as much business as possible, consider the following:

1. Choose a size for your pet show exhibit. Standard booth space is approximately 10 feet by 10 feet, but many events offer double booth space.

2. Invest in a display that includes a pet trade show display board. These are customized just for your company, so have a concept in mind.

3. Decide if you want to sell anything while you're there. If so, you'll need pet tradeshow display cases to maximize sales.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use a pet trade show booth in your exhibit

Smaller booths within your exhibit can be used for individualized service. Have one of your pet product salespeople man each booth and give prospective customers one-on-one attention. You can customize these booths with your company's logo or any other images that promote your brand.

I recommend: Consider buying one (or a few) of the portable workstations available from ExhibitDeal. Check out the large selection of booths, workstations, kiosks and even tents at Godfrey Group.

Buy a pet trade show display in the pop-up style

A pop-up display features a floor as well as one or more 'walls' that contain large format advertisements. These units fold for easy transportation and you simply pop the walls up when you're ready to set up your exhibit. Lock the walls into place and you're ready to go. These displays are also customizable, so have your artwork ready.

I recommend: Check out the aluminum displays at Smash Hit Displays. You can also find a large selection of quick-assemble displays at Everything Displays.

Ensure that you showcase your goods by using a pet trade show display case

If you want to sell some of your wares while you're at the trade show, make sure you invest in some good display cases. These have glass fronts but open in the back; all you have to do is arrange your products inside the case and let your salespeople get to work. Your products should be on the small side, so toys, collars, pet clothing and treats are all fair game for the display case.

I recommend: Browse through the different types of cases at Displays2go. Go with a lightweight acrylic case from Allen Display.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're having trouble figuring out how to best configure your exhibit, consider hiring a consultant that specializes in pet trade show services. This person can help you design your exhibit so that you attract an optimal number of potential customers.